Two RCM Educators Named NYS Master Teachers

R.C. Murphy Junior High School science teachers Michael Jantzen and Dawn Nachtigall have been named New York State Master Teachers. 

The statewide program was first introduced this past fall by Gov. Cuomo to help create a community of teaching experts dedicating to providing a first-rate learning experiences for students across New York and to help retain the best and brightest STEM educators. Only 215 educators from 10 regions in the state were selected this spring and join the 104 teachers honored in October.

“I am excited and honored to join the Master Teacher program and look forward to not only refining my own teaching practices, but also finding innovative ways to reach other educators and their prospective students in STEM education,” said Mr. Jantzen, who has been teaching earth science in the district for the past nine years. “This platform will give me the opportunity to share my enthusiasm for finding new methods to keep students engaged in science.”

“As both a classroom teacher and a Ph.D. student in science education, I feel the Master Teacher program provides me a great opportunity to share my knowledge and experience with pre- and in-service teachers,” said Ms. Nachtigall, who has been teaching in the district for the past 16 years, primarily in the area of seventh-grade science. “Providing support to new teachers is a critical component of science education reform. Strengthening teachers of STEM disciplines will ultimately lead to more successful science students and a more skilled workforce in science-related fields.”

As Master Teachers, both Jantzen and Nachtigall will engage in peer mentoring and intensive content-orientated professional development opportunities throughout the academic year. Additionally, they will work closely with pre-service and early career teachers to foster a supportive environment for the next generation of STEM teachers.

“It is a true honor and privilege to have both of these fine teachers here at Murphy – our students are extremely fortunate,” said Principal Vincent Vizzo.

“These two educators are a fine example of the outstanding teachers working in our school district,” said Superintendent of Schools Cheryl Pedisich. “Acknowledging them in this fashion is a true testament to their dedication to the field and recognizes them as premier educators in the state.”

Photo provided by the Three Village Central School District